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Summer’s here and even though the risk of sunburn is an all-year-round danger in this country the effects of burning and sun exposure are more keenly felt in the summer.
We covered the heightened risks of UV in our previous article Sensory Summer Play and whereas we know the UV levels can be much higher in NZ than in the Northern Hemisphere we rarely go far enough in protecting our children from this invisible killer.
It can be challenging to get kids to co-operate when it comes to protecting them from the sun. Extra layers can quickly be shed during play and wrestling a small child as you attempt to apply sunscreen can be a major drama.
1 - Slip, Slap, Slop
Sunscreen is easily one of the best barriers against UV. A high SPF factor should be a basic standard but you should also aim to find sunscreens that are water and sand resistant. As with anything applied on young skin consider a solution that contains as few parabens, phthalates or harmful sulphates as possible. Here at Play ‘n’ Learn we like natural products and this SPF30 sunscreen for kids from Oasis Beauty in Christchurch and made in New Zealand is pretty natural!
For a more ‘buy in bulk’ friendly option the Cancer Society has a special offer on the lower SPF ‘Everyday’ sunscreen 1-litre pump.
2 - Cover up
Hats with a wide brim are great but also consider the style of play your kids are involved in. If they’re often bent over playing in sand pits then you’re relying on the sunscreen alone to protect their exposed necks.
The New Zealand Cancer Society has some great hats and one of our favourites is the Legionnaire style and Sunmaster hat (depending on the age of the child). To add a personal touch consider having them embroidered with your centre’s logo, or with the child’s name.
3 - Third layer protection
To really protect your kids you can stop a good percentage of the sun’s rays before they even reach the child. Shade Sails are a super-effective way of keeping the children cool and protected when all they want to do is play outside.
Fix them over popular areas of stationary play such as sandpits and water play areas so that extended periods of sitting and playing are safer.
If you would like more information on our shade sails or to find out how you can have a safer outdoor area, book an appointment with one of our experienced consultants by simply clicking the button below or telephone us on 0508 111 444.
